GEORGE TOWN (July 23): Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow today put to rest speculations about a possible change in the position held by Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo, saying such a matter had never been brought up.

Chow explained that Jagdeep had met with him on July 19 to submit a leave application. 

“The purpose of the leave is for him to undergo a medical examination, after which he may require surgery on his left leg. He needs specialised care as soon as possible, and follow-up treatments.

“After considering the purpose of his leave application, I approved an 11-working-day leave from July 22 to Aug 5, as requested,” Chow said in a statement on Tuesday, adding that Jagdeep had already started treatment on Monday.

“Regarding the speculation about a possible change in Jagdeep’s current position, it has never been discussed before,” he said.

Chow said the entire leadership machinery of the Penang state government prays for Jagdeep’s swift recovery and looks forward to his return to continue the state’s development agenda for the benefit of all Penangites.

On Monday, Bernama reported that Jagdeep confirmed he is currently on leave to receive treatment for his ankle and refuted allegations that he was ordered to take a leave of absence.

Jagdeep, 53, who is also Datuk Keramat assemblyman, has been the deputy chief minister II of Penang since August last year.

Earlier, media reports suggested that Jagdeep was advised to take “leave” starting Monday to address “personal issues”. 

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